Starting the MLIS program in the Fall of 2012, I feel that my time within the program came and went, more quickly than I expected. The course content and readings really showcased the rich and diverse information available to me. I was also exposed to resources and tools that are part of the information professional field and others that are newer that will help improve access and the quality of information and services.
The MLIS program has strengthened my skills and abilities as a professional. My communication skills have improved vastly by working with groups, consistently writing and using tools to help me express my ideas in different formats. I have always felt that technology is important and the courses in this program have strengthened this belief. I have improved my technological skills and abilities learning about scripting and programming languages, such as HTML, CSS, Javascript, and EAD. I have also improved my search and retrieval skills using databases and online search engines so that I feel confident in satisfying the informational needs of users. As a result, I am encouraged to embrace and utilize technology in my work as an information professional. I also have gained new knowledge about the archives and record management field that has added to my skill set as an information professional. I have gained knowledge in the organization, preservation, and outreach that is important in discovering, protecting and disseminating information.
As one who loves to continue to learn and grow, I know I will continuously develop as an information professional. There are many resources at my disposal that will help me grow as an information professional. San Jose State provides open university courses and postgraduate certificates that will help support my post-graduate education. For example, I have the opportunity to take more courses in the Archives and Records Management field so that I can learn more and stay updated with the latest information. I will also utilize the resources available at the American Library Association and the Society for American Archivists. These associations provide supplementary articles, books, webinars, and courses to help enrich the career of information professionals. With these resources available, I plan to utilize them as I grow as an information professional.
As my graduate work comes to a close, I reflect on all the knowledge and tools that have enriched my educational experience. I feel that the MLIS program allowed me to experience the same type of work that information professionals deal with in the real world. Therefore, I look forward to the opportunities and projects ahead of me in my career because I feel sufficiently prepared to meet any challenges.
